Soccer in 2023: year in review.

FOOTBALL NOW looks back at the year that saw Spain win the Women's World Cup title for the first time, Manchester City's domination of Europe and record sums spent on players. Coming off the back of another exciting soccer year, 2023 showcased the global popularity of the sport both on and off the pitch. This year saw everything from dynamic national leagues to international tournaments and record transfer fees.
Let's start with Sydney, where unfathomable lows followed an evening of record highs. Olga Carmona's goal secured Spain's 1-0 victory over England in their first ever Women's World Cup final. But the historic achievement was overshadowed by the antics of Luis Rubiales during the celebrations. The president of the Spanish Football Association lost his job because of his behavior towards Spanish and England players. He was also banned for three years from all soccer-related national and international events.